Uttar Pradesh officials have announced plans to utilise artificial intelligence-based technologies to manage crowds at the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj in 2025.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed the state police to integrate these advanced tools to ensure unprecedented levels of security, cleanliness, and convenience during the mega event.
“The Kumbh is an interface between India’s rich religious and cultural heritage and the world. There is a need to ensure safety, convenience, and cleanliness at the event,” he said at a meeting of senior officials at his residence.
Stating that the mela presents an opportunity to boost brand UP and brand India, the Chief Minister told officials to engage professional agencies to organise the event and spread the word on it so that pilgrims and tourists from all over the world can come over and participate in this historic occasion.
He stressed the importance of leveraging technology for effective crowd control to prevent any potential disturbances. "AI-driven equipment and techniques will monitor crowd density, facilitating timely dispersal to maintain order," he explained.
Adityanath highlighted the significance of environmental consciousness, particularly around the Ganga and Kalpvasis, as the essence of the Maha Kumbh.
He directed officials to ensure the event adhered to eco-friendly practices. He directed officials to ensure that the mela was organised around the green theme.
He also said the departments concerned must ensure a clean Ganga from Bijnor to Ballia.
Officials reported that the 2025 Kumbh Mela will span approximately 4000 hectares, an expansion from 2019's 3200 hectares. Plans also include over 1.5 lakh toilets on-site and the deployment of more than 10,000 sanitation workers to maintain cleanliness.
The Chief Minister also directed police to train and sensitise the personnel for the mela duty.
“They must be warm, soft-spoken, and dignified yet affirmative while dealing with pilgrims and visitors,” he said, and he also scanned through tourism department projects taking shape in the wake of the mela.
The Urban Development Department affirmed preparations for the event, including the swift completion of key projects like the corridor connecting Akshay Vat, Saraswati Koop, and Patalpuri Temple, with assistance from local Indian Army units.
He also directed organisers to ensure that adequate arrangements are made for international VIP and VVIP guests.
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